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Rice Salad with Peanut Lime Dressing

Rice Salad with Peanut Lime Dressing

A vibrant, wholesome Rice Salad with Peanut Lime Dressing combining fluffy rice, crisp fresh vegetables, and a tangy, nutty dressing. Perfect for a healthy lunch, dinner side, or potluck dish, this recipe is easy to prepare, adaptable to various dietary needs, and delicious served chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine), cooled

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 cup cucumber, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 clove garlic, freshly grated
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Toppings

  • 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts (lightly toasted if desired)
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook and cool the rice: Cook the rice according to package instructions. Allow it to cool to room temperature or chill slightly to achieve a fresher texture suitable for the salad.
  2. Prepare the vegetables and herbs: Finely chop cucumbers, bell peppers, cilantro, and slice green onions to create a colorful and vibrant mix that will complement the rice.
  3. Mix the peanut lime dressing: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, fresh lime juice, soy sauce or tamari, honey or maple syrup, grated garlic, and grated ginger until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine everything: Gently toss the cooled rice with the prepared vegetables and the peanut lime dressing until well coated, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
  5. Garnish and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle chopped (optionally toasted) peanuts and chili flakes on top to add crunch and a subtle heat.

Notes

  • Use day-old rice for firmer, less sticky grains that work best in salads.
  • Keep vegetables fresh and crisp to enhance texture and flavor.
  • Adjust dressing consistency by adding water one teaspoon at a time if it’s too thick.
  • Let the salad rest for 15-30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  • Lightly toast peanuts before chopping for a deeper, richer flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: rice salad, peanut lime dressing, healthy salad, gluten free, vegan, peanut butter dressing, easy lunch, meal prep, fresh veggies, salad dressing